Arise Citizens’ Policy Project executive director Kimble Forrister issued the following statement Tuesday, March 11, 2014, on the latest Health Insurance Marketplace sign-up numbers released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:

“Alabama stands out in today’s release of Marketplace sign-up numbers under the Affordable Care Act. More than 55,000 Alabamians have seen their lives change for the better by gaining the peace of mind that comes with access to affordable health care.

“Even more people stand to benefit in the final weeks of initial open enrollment. More than 134,000 Alabamians who have completed applications for Marketplace coverage have been found eligible to enroll in a plan, but most have not chosen a plan yet. The number of people who apply and sign up for plans will continue to grow in the weeks to come.

“Alabama is making a strong showing among the states despite considerable obstacles. That’s a testament to creative, energetic outreach work by Navigator groups and other enrollment assisters. It’s also a testament to the hard work of groups like Bama Covered, a student-driven enrollment initiative on college campuses across the state. These groups and many others are improving lives by connecting Alabamians with affordable health coverage.”